Traders and shoppers at the Kaneshie Market in Accra have voiced their frustration over the ongoing increase in food prices, attributing it to factors beyond their influence.
In an appearance on People’s Forum, a segment of Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem on Thursday, vendors stated that while buyers often hold them responsible for the high prices, they argue that the real issue stems from rising costs at the wholesale level.
“The prices are always increasing, and buyers think it’s from us, but it’s not our fault,” one seller explained.
A fish vendor pointed out that the price of a box of fish has increased from GH¢700 to GH¢920, underscoring the deteriorating market conditions.
Another seller linked these price changes to the escalating cost of fuel, noting that a bag of tomatoes is now GH¢1,700 despite being in season, while a bag of onions costs GH¢1,800.
“Initially, a box of fish was 700 cedis, but now it has increased to 920 cedis. The market conditions are tough. I believe it’s due to the high petrol prices, causing the prices to fluctuate. Now a bag of tomatoes costs 1700 cedis, even though it’s the tomato season. It’s still expensive. A bag of onions is now 1800 cedis.”
The traders are urging authorities to regulate and stabilize prices, as the current conditions are significantly impacting their businesses and livelihoods.
“We need the authorities to monitor or regulate the pricing as it’s severely affecting us,” they urged.